Retired Independent Senator Rev. Daniel Teelucksingh expressed concern that, given the recent wave of killings and acts of violence in the nation, Trinidad and Tobago is turning into the “horror house of the Caribbean.” He said this as he preached at Ebenezer Presbyterian Church in Claxton Bay on the morning of December 25, 2024.
Rev. Teelucksingh reflected on the state of crime in the country and urged people to stop accusing the media of bringing attention to the violence.
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Rev. Teelucksingh noted, “Look at the screaming headlines. Fear, terror, anger, bloodshed, gun violence, and criminality dominate the news. Some like to blame the media, but they are simply trying to show us the truth. There is no doubt that families across this country cannot have a merry Christmas.”
Teelucksingh bemoaned the ongoing criminality, including killings, kidnappings, and house invasions.
“Last weekend, I saw the headline announcing 600 murders. By the time it got old, it was 602. Now it is 608. We are listed as one of the world’s most dangerous countries,” he continued.
Teelucksingh advised people to take charge of the country’s situation and not rely just on elections or party pledges to address social problems.
He remarked, “Electoral ink will not change the hearts of men and women. We have stained our fingers over the years, yet the violence continues. Election next year will not change the lives of our people.”
Teelucksingh declared optimism in the tenacity of decent people despite the bleak future.
He stated, stressing the need for harmony and peace, “I thank God for the righteous citizens who hold this country together. They are the backbone of this nation.”
He urged people to welcome rejuvenation in 2025 and reject the hopelessness of 2024.
“We cannot carry hopelessness into the future. The misery of this year must not pollute the time God has given us. Let us work together to make peace a reality in Trinidad and Tobago,” he noted.
In a country shattered by crime, he urged residents to have understanding and solidarity in the face of darkness and bloodshed.
